Pelosi Statement Marking 18 Years Since the Terror Attacks of September 11, 2001

Washington, D.C. – Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement marking 18 years since the terror attacks of September 11, 2001:

“Eighteen years ago, our nation suffered a loss we could never have imagined, and we witnessed heroism we will never forget. Each year, on September 11, Americans come together as one to remember the 3,000 innocent lives stolen that day and in the days that followed, to honor the bravery of the first responders who saved lives and to renew the sense of unity, resilience and hope that arose from the ashes of these evil attacks.

“While the images of smoke and rubble from New York City, the Pentagon and a field in Pennsylvania will be forever etched into the memory of every American who lived through the pain and anguish of that horrific day, it is the countless stories of selfless courage and everyday heroism that continue to inspire us. At one of our nation’s darkest moments, the true spirit of American greatness – compassion, generosity and a commitment to the ideals of freedom, justice and equality – lifted every community and gave us all the strength to move forward with a fierce determination to oppose extremism and terror wherever it is found.

“On this solemn day, and every day, we reaffirm our obligation to never forget the victims, their families or the countless first responders who showed courage beyond measure in the aftermath of 9/11, and have since suffered from devastating illnesses and lost their lives due to 9/11-related diseases. This year, Congress was proud to honor their service by passing the Never Forget the Heroes Act to finally, fully provide the financial security and support that 9/11 heroes, survivors and families deserve. Their sacrifice and the sacrifice of all those who have served our nation in the years since September 11 will continue to strengthen us in our sacred mission to defeat hatred, promote justice and build a more peaceful world for all.”